20 Women of Faith in Nigeria Empowering the Next Generation of Women and Girls

This Women’s Month, we shine a light on 20 extraordinary Nigerian women of faith who are using their influence, platforms, and leadership to empower young women and girls across the country.

From pastors mentoring women in purpose and biblical living, to faith-driven philanthropists supporting education and youth development, these women are shaping a new generation of confident, empowered, and spiritually grounded Nigerian girls.

1. Foluke Adeboye

Widely known as “Mummy G.O.” of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, she has mentored generations of women and leads large women and youth empowerment initiatives globally.

2. Faith Oyedepo

Wife of Bishop David Oyedepo and a leading voice on family life, destiny, and godly womanhood through teachings, books, and women’s conferences.

3. Funke Felix-Adejumo

Founder of the Funke Felix-Adejumo Foundation, globally respected for women’s leadership conferences and humanitarian projects including hospitals and orphanages.

4. Nike Adeyemi

Co-pastor of Daystar Christian Centre whose foundation provides shelters, rehabilitation programs, and empowerment initiatives for women and children.

5. Mildred Kingsley-Okonkwo

Co-pastor of David Christian Centre and founder of Just Us Girls Global Network, mentoring women on relationships, emotional healing, and purpose.

6. Modele Fatoyinbo

Through the Revealed Women Conference and major charity outreach, she empowers women spiritually and supports underprivileged communities with scholarships and aid.

7. Ifeanyi Adefarasin

Founder of Woman to Woman Ministry and a strong advocate for faith-based leadership, personal development, and family empowerment.

8. Margaret Benson Idahosa

A trailblazing female archbishop and one of Africa’s earliest female church leaders, continuing a legacy of education and women’s empowerment.

9. Becky Paul-Enenche

Co-pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre who mentors women through teachings on purpose, faith, and leadership.

10. Esther Ajayi

Founder of Love of Christ Generation Church and the Esther Ajayi Foundation which supports widows, children, and disadvantaged families.

11. Esther Ibanga

Founder of Women Without Walls Initiative (WOWWI), widely recognized for peace-building and women empowerment efforts in Nigeria.

12. Stephanie Oarhe

A seasoned relationship counsellor with over 30 years of mentoring women and families in faith-based relationship wisdom.

13. Laurie Idahosa

A respected Bible teacher who mentors women in leadership, spiritual growth, and ministry.

14. Folorunsho Alakija

A Nigerian businesswoman and philanthropist whose initiatives empower women through scholarships, mentorship, and community development programs. She is widely recognized for using her influence and resources to support education and uplift underprivileged communities.

15. Stephanie Ike Okafor

A globally influential preacher whose messages on identity and purpose resonate with young Christian women.

16. Laju Iren

Founder of Laju Iren Publishing and Laju Iren Films, empowering young women through storytelling, books, and faith-based media.

17. Ibukun Awosika

A respected Christian leader and mentor whose teachings encourage young women to pursue purpose, leadership, and integrity.

18. Oby Ezekwesili

A former Nigerian minister and global advocate for education and justice whose faith-driven leadership inspires many young women.

19. Apostle Opi Agha

Leads prayer networks and leadership gatherings that empower women spiritually across Nigeria.

20. Tonto Dikeh

Through the Tonto Dikeh Foundation, she supports education, youth development, and humanitarian initiatives. Recently, she sponsored JAMB forms for 1,200 students and regularly visits schools to mentor, pray with, and provide educational support. Her public commitment to Christian faith has inspired many young women to embrace positive life changes.